Lipolysis is a medical procedure that aims to specifically kill fat cells with the help of an active substance. The aim is to dissolve fat deposits in the body. A common area of application is the chin area, for example to reduce a double chin.
Injection lipolysis, or lipolysis for short, is only used for aesthetic correction, e.g.
- on the eyelid,
- on the chin or
- on the cheeks and
- locally on the body.
It is not a treatment method for removing larger accumulations of fat in the abdominal or hip area. If you are overweight, you should adjust your diet and exercise in order to lose weight.
Lipolysis can only treat smaller fat deposits after a successful diet and a lasting change in lifestyle.
During lipolysis, a fat-dissolving active ingredient is injected directly into the fatty tissue at various points under the skin using a very fine cannula. The active ingredient consists of phosphatidylcholine and the fat-dissolving substance deoxycholic acid. The active ingredient breaks down the cell membranes of the fat cells.
The released fat accumulates in the blood and is further metabolized by the liver or later excreted.
The process described takes place relatively slowly. Lipolysis can remove around 1 cm of fat per treatment.
In most cases, the treatment is repeated two to four times within eight weeks. It can be performed on an outpatient basis. As a rule, extensive anesthesia is not required. The area where lipolysis is to be performed is anaesthetized locally in advance using pain-relieving ointments.
During lipolysis, an active ingredient dissolves fat cells © Svitlana | AdobeStock
Injection lipolysis is a safe treatment in the hands of experienced therapists. Nevertheless, side effects can occur. Redness, burning and itching in the treatment areas are common. In some cases, hematomas (bruises) may also form.
In severe cases, more extensive necrosis (tissue loss) is also possible. However, at 1 case per 25,000 operations, this is a very rare complication.
As a rule , the side effects disappear without consequences within a few days. Lump formation, dents or prolonged sensory disturbances are very rare.
Patients with circulatory disorders should not undergo lipolysis. People who are taking blood-thinning medication or suffer from coagulation disorders should also avoid lipolysis. There is a risk here of triggering more severe bleeding. The effect of fat-dissolving agents has also not yet been investigated in these patients.
Lipolysis is an aesthetic procedure. Therefore, the experience and level of training of the doctor are very important factors for the success of the method.
Experts are organized in the Lipolysis Network, among others. Without good training and sufficient experience in lipolysis, there is a risk of incorrect treatment and failure with this procedure. Patients should therefore find out in advance about suitable centers and practitioners.
